Do inmates get the opportunity to go outside of prison if sentenced? I think that is a good question. Yes, from my understanding, if an inmate has good behaviour and obeys the rules set by the prison services and government, they will have the opportunity to go outside “on parole”. But this story is different. it happened to us when I was serving my sentence. We were allowed out for the day (under supervision of course).
Program support in prison
When I was in prison serving my sentence, I took part in a programme with Restorative Justice. About seven or more of us participated in this programme. We had a lot of support and fun, but as prisoners, we wanted to give back to the community. How does that happen when you’re in prison? Restorative Justice approached the head and asked if it was possible, and they saw how it benefited us and gave the go-ahead. So, we arranged to visit an old age home in my case.
Being able to leave prison and have the opportunity to go outside was the best experience ever. We visited the old age home, and before going, we made bean bags for the elderly. The programme was called Inside Out, headed up by Celeste van Es, a volunteer with Restore. People often think poorly of prisoners, but we showed them otherwise. It wasn’t about that; it was about giving back.
Grateful reflections
I thank them for the opportunity they gave me to be part of that programme. I still have pictures from that day. When I look at them, they bring me joy because most of the people at the old age home had been forgotten by their families. Just seeing their excitement… We left most of them happy, and it made me view life differently.
The best thing an inmate could experience is spending time outside their section, even if just for a few hours. Yes, they offer sports and take you out for exercise and to spend time in the sun, but this is limited.
Labelled
The flip side of this humane experience is labelling – rapists, murderers, thieves, and hijackers—you name it—I have been with them all. Yes, sometimes certain individuals are placed in different cells due to circumstances and the type of person they are. They are labelled by their actions and treated accordingly, which I think is strange. We all did our wrongs and were held accountable for our actions, but if I have left that behind, why am I still labelled?
Should you wish to assist in the rehabilitation of former inmates and help put money into the pockets of those who have struggled to earn a living during and after incarceration, click HERE
This project in collaboration with RESTORE currently works with formerly incarcerated young men in the communities.
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